DIY optogenetics: Building, programming, and using the Light Plate Apparatus.

Optogenetic systems enable unmatched precision for controlling molecular biological processes but require the use of specialized electrical and optical hardware. In an effort to make working with optogenetic systems more accessible, we recently described an open-source hardware platform called the Light Plate Apparatus (LPA). The LPA is a device capable of delivering two independent light signals from standard LEDs to wells of a 24-well culture plate. Basic to advanced level light programs can be created for the LPA in Iris, an easy to use, open-source web application. In this chapter, we describe each step required to build, program, and use the LPA.